Hydration during pregnancy can be challenging, so you might wonder whether you can drink Pedialyte while pregnant. Whether it’s because you’re vomiting or because you are just perpetually thirsty (water can be a pregnancy craving too!), dehydration can be a real problem that makes you feel worse while pregnant.
Pregnant women can safely drink Pedialyte. In fact, it may be beneficial for expecting mothers who are experiencing dehydration due to morning sickness or other pregnancy-related illnesses and symptoms. However, it is always best to speak with your doctor before consuming any new food or drink during pregnancy.
Read on to learn more about how Pedialyte can help during your pregnancy and what concerns need to be taken into consideration. 
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Can You Drink Pedialyte While Pregnant
Pedialyte is a brand of oral rehydration solution that is commonly used to treat dehydration in children. It contains a balanced amount of electrolytes and fluids that help replenish lost fluids due to vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating. Pedialyte is also used by athletes to recover from dehydration after intense physical activity.
When it comes to pregnancy, dehydration is a common concern, especially during the first trimester when morning sickness can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Pregnant women may wonder if it is safe to drink Pedialyte to rehydrate themselves.
The short answer is yes, it is generally safe for pregnant women to drink Pedialyte. The American Pregnancy Association warns against dehydration during pregnancy.
Pedialyte itself claims to be safe for pregnant women, but it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before consuming Pedialyte or any other oral rehydration solution.
While Pedialyte is generally considered safe, pregnant women should be cautious of the sugar content in some Pedialyte products. Some Pedialyte products contain high amounts of sugar, which can be harmful to pregnant women with gestational diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. Pregnant women should opt for sugar-free Pedialyte products or consult with a healthcare provider before consuming Pedialyte with sugar.
What is Pedialyte made of?
One of the key ingredients in Pedialyte is electrolytes, which are minerals essential for the basic functioning of your body. They maintain electrical neutrality in cells and fluid volume in your body. Electrolyte imbalance can even be life-threatening.
The most important electrolytes in Pedialyte are sodium, potassium, and chloride. These electrolytes help to replace fluids and minerals that are lost during vomiting or diarrhea.
Pedialyte is also fortified with carbohydrates, such as glucose or sucrose, which provide energy and help the body absorb fluids and electrolytes more efficiently. It is important to note that Pedialyte is not a substitute for food, and should only be used as a supplement to a balanced diet.
What is Pedialyte used for?
Most of us know Pedialyte as the sick drink of our childhoods.
Pedialyte is commonly used to treat dehydration in children who have diarrhea or vomiting caused by a viral infection, such as the stomach flu. It can also be used to help prevent dehydration in children who are sick or who have been exercising in hot weather.
Adults can also benefit from using Pedialyte, especially if they are experiencing symptoms of dehydration. This may include feeling thirsty, having a dry mouth, feeling tired or dizzy, or having dark urine. Pedialyte can help to restore fluids and electrolytes, which can help to improve these symptoms.
Some people also use Pedialyte as a hangover cure, as alcohol can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support this use, and it is not recommended as a reliable treatment for hangovers.
Overall, Pedialyte is a safe and effective way to help prevent and treat dehydration in children and adults. It is important to follow the instructions on the label carefully and to seek medical attention if symptoms of dehydration persist or worsen.
When should I not drink Pedialyte
Because the ingredients are simple, they’re typically safe during pregnancy. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, Pedialyte is great as an occasional pick-me-up. But, if your vomiting is severe and unrelenting, you may have Hypermisis Gravidarum.
HG can be life-threatening if not treated, and Pedialyte alone is not the answer. You will probably require an IV and medications to ease your symptoms. Some signs of HG are losing more than 5 percent of pre-pregnancy weight and nausea that is severe and constant.
Second, if you have gestational diabetes, your doctor will likely give you nutritional guidance that may or may not include sweetened drinks like Pedialyte.
Treatment for gestational diabetes typically includes eating healthy foods spaced throughout the day to regulate your blood sugar.
Is it safe to drink Pedialyte while pregnant
While Pedialyte is generally safe for pregnant women, there are still some concerns and precautions to keep in mind. One of the primary concerns is the sugar content in some of the flavored varieties of Pedialyte. Pregnant women should avoid consuming too much sugar, as it can lead to gestational diabetes and other health complications.
Another concern is the sodium content in Pedialyte. While sodium is an essential nutrient that helps regulate fluid balance in the body, consuming too much can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. Pregnant women should limit their sodium intake to no more than 2,300 mg per day.
It’s also important to note that Pedialyte should not be used as a replacement for prenatal vitamins or other essential nutrients. While it can help rehydrate the body and replenish electrolytes, it does not contain the necessary vitamins and minerals that are essential for a healthy pregnancy.
Be sure to read the label and follow the instructions when drinking Pedialyte. Pregnant women should not exceed the recommended dosage, as too much sodium or potassium can be harmful to both the mother and the baby.
If you have any concerns or questions about consuming Pedialyte while pregnant, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs and medical history.
Signs of dehydration while pregnant
Dehydration during pregnancy can harm both you and the baby. Besides putting your body at risk, dehydration can cause neural tube defects, low amniotic fluid, and even premature birth.
It can be hard to distinguish signs of dehydration from other pregnancy woes. Signs of dehydration in adults include:
- Feeling overheated
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Thirst
- Dry Mouth
- Dark-colored urine
- Dry skin
- Constipation
Pregnant people need more fluids than when not pregnant. Aim for 8-12 glasses per day.
Alternatives to Pedialyte for electrolytes
You don’t have to drink special drinks to get enough electrolytes. We typically get all we need through our normal diets, but pregnant people sometimes turn to Pedialyte because they have a hard time with food aversions and vomiting.
Electrolytes include sodium, phosphate, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride and bromide.
Foods that contain these minerals are numerous but include bananas, potatoes, beans, peanuts, oranges, milk, yogurt, fish, and avocados. A diet reliant on whole foods will almost certainly provide you with all the electrolytes you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I drink for dehydration while pregnant?
Any fluid can help you rehydrate, but some are better than others. Try to drink 8 to 12 glasses of water or other fluids per day. Water, milk, juice, lemonade, and electrolyte drinks can all help restore your fluid levels.
Avoid products with caffeine because it is a diuretic.
What is the healthiest electrolyte drink for pregnancy?
Some electrolyte hydration drinks like Needed are customized for pregnant people. It does not use sugar or stevia.
Your doctor, midwife, or doula may have a brand that they recommend.
